Controlling dynamic systems by measuring the no-load voltage of a photovoltaic generator

ABSTRACT

The dynamic system is part of a dynamic apparatus having at least one photovoltaic generator, at least one battery and at least one device for controlling the dynamic apparatus. The method for controlling the dynamic system on the basis of sunlight involves electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator from the battery, reading the no-load voltage of the photovoltaic generator, determining a numerical value on the basis of the no load voltage, corresponding to the no-load voltage reading, and comparing the predetermined numerical value with at least one reference threshold value. When the predetermined numerical value corresponds to a value range limited by at least one such reference threshold value the dynamic system is controlled so as to thereon confer a configuration corresponding to the value range.

RELATED U.S. APPLICATIONS

Not applicable.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO MICROFICHE APPENDIX

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention concerns a method for controlling a dynamic system that is part of a dynamic apparatus, on the basis of the sunlight.

Said invention also relates to a dynamic apparatus comprising a dynamic system, a photovoltaic generator as well as a device for controlling said dynamic apparatus on the basis of the sunlight.

Said invention concerns the field of manufacturing dynamic apparatus self-sufficient in energy and comprising a dynamic system, a photovoltaic generator as well as a battery supplied with electrical energy by the photovoltaic generator and supplying the dynamic system with energy.

2. Description of Related Art Including Information Disclosed Under 37 CFR 1.97 and 37 CFR 1.98

Dynamic apparatus of this type is already known, in the form of a shading device such as a blind or similar.

In particular, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,675,487 a device is described for controlling energy through a window. This device comprises a blind, constituting a dynamic system, photovoltaic generators, a battery as well as light sensors to capture the sunlight and providing information on the basis of which the dynamic system is controlled.

There is also a known document, FR2.740.825 relating to an installation for controlling solar protection units. Such an installation comprises solar protection units as well as means for actuating said units. Said installation also comprises an automatic shade control system. Said system comprises a sensor, remote from the actuators and equipped with means for measuring the intensity of the solar radiation and means for measuring at least one other meteorological phenomenon. Said system also comprises means of supplying the sensor with electrical energy, said supply means consisting, in particular, of a photovoltaic generator.

In document WO2010/079407 a method is described for operating home automation equipment for motor-driven solar protection. Said installation comprises a blind, a photovoltaic generator serving as an energy collector, a battery as well as a remote solar sensor which, if it detects direct sunlight, controls the deployment of the blind.

In any event, the dynamic apparatus known in the prior art comprises, on the one hand, a photovoltaic generator usually used to charge with electricity a battery intended to supply a dynamic system that is part of such a dynamic apparatus, and on the other hand, a solar sensor, designed to detect solar radiation for the purpose of controlling the dynamic system, attached to the photovoltaic generator and remote from the dynamic system.

Apart from the fact that such a solar sensor constitutes an additional element to the dynamic apparatus, it may be remote from the dynamic system and therefore be positioned in a place not representative of the conditions in the environment of said dynamic system, in particular in a shaded place. Moreover, such a sensor is usually some distance from the dynamic system to be controlled so that it is necessary to transmit the information captured by said sensor to the dynamic system. Such transmission may be achieved either by a wired link requiring an electric cable, impractical to install, and even unattractive, or a radio or Wi-Fi link requiring at least one receiver on the dynamic system and representing a more costly solution than the wired link.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This invention is intended to remedy the disadvantages of the dynamic apparatus of the prior art.

To this effect, the invention relates to a method of controlling, on the basis of the sunlight, a dynamic system that is part of a dynamic apparatus, which in turn comprises at least one photovoltaic generator, at least one battery for storing the electrical energy supplied by the photovoltaic generator and for supplying the dynamic system with electrical energy as well as at least one device for controlling said dynamic apparatus.

Said method involves:

-   -   electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator from the         battery;     -   reading the no-load voltage Vo of the photovoltaic generator;     -   on the basis of the no-load voltage Vo reading, determining a         numerical value Vpv corresponding to said no-load voltage Vo         reading and comparing said numerical value Vpv determined with         at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1;         Vthreshold2);     -   when said numerical value Vpv determined corresponds to a value         range limited by at least one such reference threshold value         (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2), controlling the dynamic system so as         to thereon confer a configuration corresponding to said value         range.

Additionally, the method also involves, before operating the dynamic system:

-   -   electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator from the         battery;     -   reading the short circuit current Icc of the isolated         photovoltaic generator;     -   on the basis of at least one short circuit current Icc reading,         determining a numerical value Ipv corresponding to said short         circuit current Icc reading or readings;     -   and, when controlling the dynamic system, controlling said         dynamic system so as to thereon confer a configuration         determined on the basis of at least one of the numerical values         Vpv and/or Vpv and Ipv determined.

The invention also concerns a dynamic apparatus, in particular for the implementation of the method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a dynamic system, a photovoltaic generator, a battery supplied with electrical energy by the photovoltaic generator and supplying the dynamic system with electrical energy, at least one device for controlling the dynamic apparatus on the basis of the sunlight.

Said dynamic apparatus is characterised by the fact that the device for controlling the dynamic apparatus comprises at least:

-   -   means for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator from         the battery;     -   means for reading the no-load voltage Vo of the photovoltaic         generator;     -   means for determining a numerical value Vpv corresponding to         said no-load voltage Vo reading;     -   means for comparing said numerical value Vpv determined with at         least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2);     -   means for controlling at least the means for electrically         isolating, the means for determining a numerical value Vpv as         well as the means for comparing;     -   means for controlling the dynamic system according to the result         of the comparison between said numerical value Vpv determined         and at least one such reference threshold value (Vthreshold1;         Vthreshold2).

Additionally, said dynamic apparatus also comprises:

-   -   means for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator from         the battery;     -   means for reading the short circuit current Icc of the         photovoltaic generator;     -   means for determining a numerical value Ipv corresponding to at         least one short circuit current Icc reading;     -   means for comparing said numerical value Ipv determined with at         least one reference threshold value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2);     -   means for controlling at least said means for electrically         isolating, said means for determining a numerical value Ipv as         well as said means for comparing;     -   means for controlling the dynamic system according to the result         of the comparison between said numerical value Ipv determined         and at least one such reference threshold value (Ithreshold1;         Ithreshold2).

This invention involves reading the no-load voltage of the photovoltaic generator and, on the basis of said no-load voltage reading, controlling the dynamic apparatus, more particularly the dynamic system that is part of said dynamic apparatus. This invention therefore, advantageously, involves taking advantage of an electrical quantity provided directly by the photovoltaic generator to control said dynamic apparatus and no longer, as in the prior art, of having to use an additional and, what is more, remote sensor to provide such control.

In particular, measuring the no-load voltage makes it possible, advantageously, to detect the sunrise/sunset and therefore to provide twilight control of the dynamic apparatus.

In the particular case of a dynamic apparatus comprising a shading device, in particular a roller shutter or similar, the use of the no-load voltage of the photovoltaic generator makes it possible, advantageously, to provide twilight opening/closing of a dynamic system, more particularly comprising a roller shutter apron.

This invention also involves, reading at least one short circuit current of the photovoltaic generator and, on the basis of at least one short circuit current reading, controlling the dynamic apparatus. Once again, the invention involves taking advantage of a quantity provided directly by the photovoltaic generator to control the dynamic apparatus. In the particular case of a dynamic apparatus comprising a shading device, controlling said dynamic apparatus on the basis of the short circuit current makes it possible, advantageously, to partially close, or leave with openings, the dynamic system, more particularly comprising a roller shutter apron.

In any event, said invention makes it possible, advantageously, to control a dynamic apparatus (more particularly a dynamic system that is part of such a dynamic apparatus), on the basis of electrical quantities provided directly by the photovoltaic generator and not, as in the prior art, by an additional, possibly remote, sensor.

Other purposes and benefits of this invention will become clear in the course of the description that follows relating to the embodiments, which are given by way of indicative but not limitative examples.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Comprehension of said description will be facilitated by referring to the drawings enclosed.

FIG. 1 is a schematic view in elevation of a dynamic apparatus comprising a roller shutter.

FIG. 2 is a graph showing, according to the weather, the evolution of the solar radiation resulting from solar irradiance and the no-load voltage of a photovoltaic generator subject to said solar irradiance.

FIG. 3 corresponds to an enlargement of the graph shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a graph showing, according to the weather, the evolution of the solar radiation resulting from solar irradiance and the short circuit current of a photovoltaic generator subject to said solar irradiance.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a dynamic apparatus according to the invention.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a dynamic apparatus according to the invention and corresponding to a more sophisticated embodiment than that illustrated in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating the method of controlling a dynamic apparatus on the basis of the sunlight.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

This invention relates to the field of manufacturing dynamic apparatus self-sufficient in energy.

Non-limitatively, such a dynamic apparatus may consist of a heating appliance, an air conditioner, a ventilator, or a centralised power system (BMS or other), a solar protection device or other. Such a dynamic apparatus may also be a roller shutter, which corresponds to a particular embodiment of such a dynamic apparatus to which particular reference will be made in the rest of the description and which is illustrated in FIG. 1.

Whatever the type of said dynamic apparatus 1, the latter comprises a dynamic system 2 which, in the particular case of a roller shutter, consists of least an apron resulting from the assembly of a plurality of slats, and possibly also of a motorised shaft onto which said apron is rolled and from which it is unrolled.

Such dynamic apparatus 1 also comprises a photovoltaic generator 3, more particularly consisting of at least one photovoltaic panel, which, in the particular case of a roller shutter, may be fixed onto a box that is part of said roller shutter and which contains said motorised shaft.

Such dynamic apparatus 1 also comprises a battery 4, supplied with electrical energy by the photovoltaic generator, and supplying the dynamic system 2 with electrical energy. In the particular case of a roller shutter, such a battery 4 is, once again, located in the shutter box.

Finally, said dynamic apparatus 1 comprises a device 5 for controlling said dynamic apparatus. In one preferred embodiment such a control device 5 consists at least partly of an electronic board, located notably inside a roller shutter box.

As mentioned above, such a dynamic apparatus 1 comprises a photovoltaic generator 3 designed to receive solar irradiance and to supply electrical energy to said battery 4 under the effect of said solar irradiance.

According to a first inventive step, it was conceived that, at the terminals of said photovoltaic generator 3, a no-load voltage Vo delivered under the effect of solar irradiance would be read.

Thus, in the graphs in FIGS. 2 and 3, the evolution of said no-load voltage Vo has been shown (in Volts) according to the weather, over the course of one day and under the effect of said solar irradiance.

In the same graphs in FIGS. 2 and 3, again according to the weather, the evolution has been shown of the solar radiation (measured using a pyranometer or similar and expressed in W/m2) to which the photovoltaic generator 3 is subject, during the course of the same day and under the effect of the same solar irradiance.

The joint representation of the evolution of the no-load voltage Vo and the solar radiation has demonstrated that:

-   -   the increase in solar radiation corresponding to sunrise,         corresponds substantially to an increase in the no-load voltage         Vo of the photovoltaic generator 3;     -   the reduction in solar radiation corresponding to sunset         corresponds substantially to a reduction in said no-load voltage         Vo.

The correlation between the solar radiation and the no-load voltage Vo of the photovoltaic generator 3 has led the inventors to develop this invention consisting of controlling the operation of a dynamic apparatus 1 on the basis of the sunlight, using measurements of the no-load voltage Vo at the terminals of the photovoltaic generator 3.

In a second inventive step, it was conceived that the short circuit current Icc of the photovoltaic generator 3 would be read under the effect of solar irradiance.

Thus, in the graph in FIG. 4, the evolution of said short circuit current Icc (in amps) has been shown according to the weather, over the course of one day under the effect of such solar irradiance.

In the same graph in FIG. 4, again according to the weather, the evolution has been shown of the solar radiation (once again measured using a pyranometer or similar and expressed in W/m2) to which the photovoltaic generator 3 was subject, during the course of the same day and under the effect of the same solar irradiance.

The joint representation of the evolution of the short circuit current Icc and the solar radiation has demonstrated a direct correlation between said two quantities.

This correlation has led the inventors to develop said invention consisting of controlling the operation of a dynamic apparatus 1 on the basis of the sunlight, using measurements of the short circuit current Icc of the photovoltaic generator 3.

This invention consists, in fact, of a method for controlling a dynamic apparatus 1 (more particularly a dynamic system 2 that is part of such a dynamic apparatus 1), on the basis of the sunlight.

According to the invention, said method of controlling involves:

-   -   electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 from the         battery 4;     -   reading the no-load voltage Vo of the photovoltaic generator 3;     -   on the basis of the no-load voltage Vo reading, determining a         numerical value Vpv corresponding to said no-load voltage Vo         reading and comparing said numerical value Vpv determined with         at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1;         Vthreshold2);     -   when said numerical value Vpv determined corresponds to a value         range limited by at least one such reference threshold value         (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2), controlling the dynamic system 2 so         as to thereon confer a configuration corresponding to said value         range.

Thus, the method involves, in particular, electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 from the battery 4.

In this respect, it will be noted that such an electrical isolation of the photovoltaic generator 3 is made temporarily, for at least the time necessary to enable the implementation of the above-mentioned control method whereas for the rest of the time the photovoltaic generator 3 is connected to the battery 4 in order to charge the latter.

In fact, the photovoltaic generator 3 is electrically isolated at least while the no-load voltage Vo of said photovoltaic generator 3 is read, and even while a numerical value Vpv corresponding to said no-voltage voltage Vo is determined and/or while said numerical value Vpv determined is compared with at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2).

According to another characteristic of said method, the photovoltaic generator is isolated, the no-load voltage Vo is read, the numerical value Vpv corresponding to said no-load voltage Vo reading is determined and said numerical value Vpv determined is compared with at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2), at predetermined and/or regular intervals.

In fact, such an interval is chosen according to the needs of the application and/or the electronic components used to implement the method.

In the particular case of a dynamic apparatus 1 consisting of a roller shutter, said interval is between 30 seconds and 10 minutes inclusive, preferably of the order of 1 minute.

An additional characteristic involves the photovoltaic generator being isolated, the no-load voltage Vo being read, the numerical value Vpv corresponding to said no-load voltage Vo reading being determined and said numerical value Vpv determined being compared with at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2), successively and governed by a sequential-type control.

As mentioned above, the method involves determining a numerical value Vpv corresponding to a no-load voltage Vo reading.

In this respect, it will be noted that, in a first embodiment, when such a numerical value Vpv is determined, a voltage corresponding to the no-load voltage Vo reading is converted directly into a numerical value.

Another embodiment involves, when such a numerical value Vpv is determined, converting into a numerical value a voltage corresponding to a fraction (division) of said no-load voltage Vo reading.

Thus, when such a numerical value Vpv is determined, first of all the no-load value Vo reading is divided to obtain a fraction of said no-load voltage Vo reading and then said fraction of said no-load voltage Vo reading is converted to obtain said numerical value Vpv corresponding to the no-load value Vo reading.

Such an embodiment makes it possible, advantageously, to bring the no-load voltage Vo reading within an admissible range by means (described below) for converting an analog signal into a digital signal.

As mentioned above, the method involves comparing the numerical value Vpv determined with at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2).

Thus and according to an additional characteristic, before making such a comparison, such a reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2) is configured, and such a reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2) may even be saved in a memory, in particular one that is part of the control device 5.

In this respect, it will be noted that such a reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2) will be set on the basis of values taken from the literature and/or values determined experimentally (more particularly by means of temperature probes, sensors, in particular solar radiation sensors) and/or values determined by digital simulation (more particularly by means of equation solvers such as EES or Scilab, computation software such as Matlab, dynamic simulation software such as TRNSYS, Ecotect, Energy Plus or similar) and/or values determined by calculation (more particularly by means of equations, charts or others).

Another characteristic of the method according to the invention involves, when the no-load voltage Vo of the photovoltaic generator 3 is read, also reading the temperature of the control device 5 and, either operating the dynamic system 2 when said temperature is higher than a threshold temperature Ts, or inhibiting the operation of said dynamic system 2 when said temperature is lower than said threshold temperature Ts.

It will be noted that said threshold temperature Ts will have been determined in advance experimentally, validated by simulation for the chosen application, and may be adjusted according to need. In a particular embodiment, the threshold temperature Ts will be between 0 and 10° C., more particularly of the order of 5° C.

An additional characteristic of the method involves the operation of the dynamic system 2 being inhibited within at least one predefined time range.

In fact and more precisely, within said predefined time range, such operation is inhibited by preventing the comparison between the numerical value Vpv determined and at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2), more particularly by inhibiting the comparator function of the dynamic apparatus 1.

Within said time range, the reading of the no-load voltage Vo and/or the determination of the numerical value Vpv corresponding to said no-load voltage Vo reading can also be prevented.

In this respect, it will be noted that the predefined time range during which the operation of the dynamic system is inhibited may, for example, extend from 22.30 to 7.00.

Moreover, such a time range can also be modulated according to the day of the week and/or the season and/or the geographical location and/or the geographical orientation of the dynamic system 2 and/or the dynamic apparatus 1.

Such an embodiment makes it possible, advantageously, to avoid the dynamic system 2 being operated too early in the morning or too late.

As mentioned above, the control method involves, when said numerical value Vpv determined corresponds to a value range limited by at least one such reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2), controlling the dynamic system 2 so as to thereon confer a configuration corresponding to said value range.

Thus, and in a particular embodiment of the invention, said control method may involve, when the numerical value Vpv determined is lower than a reference threshold value Vthreshold1, controlling the dynamic system 2 so as to thereon confer a first configuration.

In the particular case of a dynamic apparatus 1 consisting of a roller shutter, said first configuration may consist of a position where the apron of said roller shutter is completely closed.

Said method may then also involve, when the numerical value Vpv determined is higher than a reference threshold value Vthreshold2 (in a particular embodiment, Vthreshold2 may be equal to Vthreshold1), controlling the dynamic system 2 so as to thereon confer a second configuration.

In the particular case of a dynamic apparatus 1 consisting of a roller shutter, said second configuration may consist of a position where the apron of said roller shutter is completely open.

Thus, said particular embodiment of the invention makes it possible to provide twilight control (twilight closing/opening) of a roller shutter apron.

Of course, and as mentioned above, such control may, in a more sophisticated embodiment, be provided by also taking account of a predefined time range and/or a second reference threshold value Vthreshold2.

Said control method may then also consist, when the predetermined numerical value Vpv is lower than a first reference threshold value Vthreshold1, of controlling the dynamic system 2 so as to thereon confer a first configuration (for example a twilight closure position), when the predetermined numerical value Vpv is lower than a second reference threshold value Vthreshold2 or when the current time read corresponds to a predetermined time at which the dynamic system 2 adopts said first configuration.

Said control method may also involve, before comparing the numerical value Vpv determined with at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2), testing whether the current time H is situated within the predefined time range (in particular 22.30 to 7.00) in order either to prevent such a comparison when this is the case, or to authorise such a comparison when it is not the case.

As mentioned above, the method according to the invention involves controlling the dynamic apparatus 1 (more particularly the dynamic system 2) on the basis of the no-load voltage Vo of the photovoltaic generator 3.

In fact, the invention also relates to a dynamic apparatus 1, notably designed for the implementation of said method.

As mentioned above, such a dynamic apparatus 1 comprises a dynamic system 2, a photovoltaic generator 3, a battery 4 and a device 5 for controlling the dynamic apparatus 1 on the basis of the sunlight.

According to the invention and as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, said device 5 for controlling such a dynamic apparatus 1 comprises:

-   -   means 50 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator         from the battery;     -   means for reading the no-load voltage Vo of the photovoltaic         generator 3;     -   means 51 for determining a numerical value Vpv corresponding to         said no-load voltage Vo reading;     -   means 52 for comparing said numerical value Vpv determined with         at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1;         Vthreshold2);     -   means 53 for controlling at least the means 50 for electrically         isolating, the means 51 for determining a numerical value Vpv as         well as the means 52 for comparing;     -   means for controlling the dynamic system according to the result         of the comparison between said numerical value Vpv determined         and at least one such reference threshold value (Vthreshold1;         Vthreshold2).

As far as the means 50 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 is concerned, this may, in a first embodiment, consist at least partly of an electromechanical relay placed between the photovoltaic generator 3 and the battery 4, and comprising a normally closed contact and a coil, more particularly supplied by the battery 4.

However, and in a second embodiment, the means 50 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator consists at least partly of a diode with a very low leakage current placed between the photovoltaic generator 3 and the battery 4.

In such a case, said diode has a threshold voltage determined so that the means 50 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 isolates the latter 3 for as long as the voltage at the terminals of said photovoltaic generator 3 is lower than the voltage of the battery 4 plus the threshold voltage of the diode.

Thus, as long as the voltage at the terminals of the photovoltaic generator 3 is lower than that of the battery 4 plus the threshold voltage of the diode, the photovoltaic generator 3 behaves as if it were unloaded. Said embodiment makes it possible, advantageously, to avoid physically disconnecting the photovoltaic generator 3.

As mentioned above, the control device 5 comprises means 51 for determining a numerical value Vpv corresponding to the no-load voltage Vo reading.

Said means 51 for determining such a numerical value Vpv comprises at least means 510 for converting an analog signal, corresponding to the no-load voltage Vo reading, into a digital signal corresponding to said no-load voltage Vo reading.

In fact, such means for converting such a signal consists more particularly of an analog-to-digital converter, notably of the standalone 8-bit (or more) type.

Additionally, the means 51 for determining a numerical value Vpv also comprises a voltage divider 511, placed between the photovoltaic generator 3 and the means 510 for converting an analog signal into a digital signal.

Such a voltage divider 511 is designed to divide the no-load voltage Vo reading of the photovoltaic generator 3, in order to obtain a voltage Vo′ corresponding to the no-load voltage Vo of the photovoltaic generator, whose value is within a range of values admissible by the means 510 for converting an analog signal into a digital signal.

In a particular embodiment of the invention, said voltage divider 511 consists of a resistor bridge whose ratio is equal to the maximum input voltage of the conversion means 510 divided by the maximum no-load voltage of the photovoltaic generator 3.

Additionally, said voltage divider 511 is designed so that the polarisation current of the resistor bridge does not exceed a few tens of microamps so that the resulting charge at the photovoltaic generator 3 output can be considered as negligible.

As mentioned above, the control device 5 comprises means 53 for controlling at least the means 50 for electrically isolating, the means 51 for determining a numerical value Vpv as well as the means 52 for comparing.

In fact, said control means 53 is designed to control, at predetermined and/or regular intervals, the means 50 for electrically isolating, the means 51 for determining a numerical value Vpv and the means 52 for comparing, and even the means for reading and/or the means for operating.

In this respect, it will be noted, that in the particular case of a roller shutter, said control means 53 may be designed to provide said control at predetermined, regular intervals of between 30 seconds and 10 minutes inclusive, preferably of the order of 1 minute.

Additionally, said control means 53 may also be designed to control, successively, the means 50 for electrically isolating, the means 51 for determining a numerical value and the means 52 for comparing.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, such control means 53 consists of a measurement sequencer designed to regulate the operations necessary to operate the dynamic system 2, namely to isolate the photovoltaic generator 3, then to trigger the analog-to-digital conversion, and after that to carry out the comparison and finally to reconnect the photovoltaic generator 3.

According to an additional characteristic, the control device 5 also comprises at least means 54 for setting at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2).

Such means 54 for setting parameters may consist either of an adjustable potentiometer or similar, or a memory containing at least one settable reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2). Such a memory will be of the non-volatile type and may be internal or external.

Yet another additional characteristic involves said device comprising means of reading the temperature of the device 5 to control the dynamic apparatus 1, more particularly the dynamic system 2. In fact, such means of reading the temperature is, more particularly, designed to read the temperature of an electronic board that is part of said control device 5.

According to another characteristic, the control device 5 also comprises means 55 for inhibiting the operation of the dynamic system 2 within at least one predefined time range.

In fact, said means 55 for inhibiting the operation of the dynamic system 2 is, preferably, designed to prevent the comparison between the numerical value Vpv determined and at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; 2), more particularly by inhibiting the means 52 for comparing that is part of the control device 5.

Additionally, said means 55 for inhibiting the operation may also be designed to inhibit the means for reading the no-load voltage Vo and/or the means 51 for determining a numerical value Vpv.

In this respect, it will be noted that the predefined time range during which the operation of the dynamic system is inhibited may, for example, extend from 22.30 to 7.00.

Moreover, such a time range can also be modulated according to the day of the week and/or the season and/or the geographical location and/or the geographical orientation of the dynamic system 2 and/or the dynamic apparatus 1.

Such an embodiment makes it possible, advantageously, to avoid the dynamic system 2 being operated too early in the morning or too late.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the inhibiting means 55 consists at least partly of a real-time clock and calendar.

According to yet another characteristic, the control device 5 comprises a microcontroller 6 integrating at least a part of the means 51 for determining a numerical value Vpv corresponding to the no-load voltage Vo (more particularly the analog-to-digital converter 510) and/or the means 52 for comparing said numerical value Vpv determined with at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2), and even, depending on the case, the control means 53 for and/or the memory 54 containing at least one settable reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2).

In this respect, it will be noted that the means 52 for comparing that is part of said microcontroller 6 consists, more particularly, of a software routine.

It will be noted that such a microcontroller 6 possesses clock circuits (timers) able, advantageously, to be used to implement the measurement sequencer function and constituting, at least partly said control means 53.

As mentioned above, said invention involves controlling the dynamic apparatus 1 (more particularly at least the dynamic system 2 that is part of said dynamic apparatus 1) on the basis of the sunlight, using at least one reading of the no-load voltage Vo of the photovoltaic generator 3.

Additionally, the method according to the invention also involves controlling said dynamic apparatus 1 on the basis of the short circuit current Icc of the photovoltaic generator 3. Said method therefore involves:

-   -   electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 from the         battery 4;     -   reading the short circuit current Icc of the isolated         photovoltaic generator 3;     -   based on at least one reading of the short circuit current Icc,         determining a numerical value Ipv corresponding to the reading         or readings of the short circuit current Icc and comparing said         numerical value Ipv determined with at least one reference         threshold value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2);     -   when said predetermined numerical value Ipv corresponds to a         value range limited by at least one such reference threshold         value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2), controlling the dynamic system         2 so as to thereon confer a configuration corresponding to said         value range.

In fact, said method involves, more particularly, before operating the dynamic system 2:

-   -   electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 from the         battery 4;     -   reading the short circuit current Icc of the isolated         photovoltaic generator 3;     -   on the basis of at least one short circuit current Icc reading,         determining a numerical value Ipv corresponding to said short         circuit current Icc reading or readings;     -   and, when controlling the dynamic system 2, controlling said         dynamic system 2 so as to thereon confer a configuration         determined on the basis of at least one of the numerical values         Vpv and/or Vpv and Ipv determined.

Said method then involves, more particularly:

-   -   electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 from the         battery 4, reading the no-load voltage Vo of the photovoltaic         generator 3, determining on the basis of the no-load voltage Vo         reading a numerical value Vpv corresponding to said no-load         voltage Vo reading, and comparing said numerical value Vpv         determined with at least one reference threshold value         (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2);     -   electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 from the         battery 4, reading the short circuit current Icc of the isolated         photovoltaic generator 3, determining on the basis of at least         one reading of the short circuit current Icc a numerical value         Ipv corresponding to said reading or readings of the short         circuit current Icc, and comparing said numerical value Ipv         determined with at least one reference threshold value         (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2);     -   when said numerical value Vpv determined corresponds to a value         range Gv limited by at least one such reference threshold value         (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2) and when said numerical value Ipv         determined corresponds to a value range Gi limited by at least         one such reference threshold value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2),         controlling the control system 2 so as to thereon confer a         configuration corresponding to these value ranges (Gv; Gi).

In this respect, it will be noted that, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the no-load voltage Vo of the photovoltaic generator 3 is read (and even a numerical value Vpv corresponding to said no-load voltage Vo reading, is determined and said numerical value Vpv determined is compared with at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2)), and the short circuit current Icc of the isolated photovoltaic generator 3 is read (and even a numerical value Ipv corresponding to said reading or readings of the short circuit current Icc is determined, and said numerical value Ipv determined is compared with at least one reference threshold value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2)), sequentially.

Thus, and according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, first of all the no-load voltage Vo of the photovoltaic generator 3 is read (and even a numerical value Vpv corresponding to said no-load voltage Vo reading, is determined and said numerical value Vpv determined is compared with at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2)), and then the short circuit current Icc of the isolated photovoltaic generator 3 is read (and even a numerical value Ipv corresponding to said reading or readings of the short circuit current Icc is determined, and said numerical value Ipv determined is compared with at least one reference threshold value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2)).

Moreover, and as mentioned above, the dynamic system 2 is controlled so as to thereon confer a configuration corresponding to the value ranges (Gv; Gi).

In this respect, it will be noted that such control is, preferably afforded by controlling the dynamic system 2 so as to thereon confer a configuration corresponding to the combination of said two value ranges (Gv; Gi), one Gv corresponding to a value range Gv limited by at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2) whilst the other Gi corresponds to a value range Gi limited by at least one reference threshold value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2).

Moreover, it will be noted that the control of such a dynamic system 2 can be afforded based, on the one hand on a plurality of value ranges Gv each limited by at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2) and, on the other hand, on a plurality of value ranges Gi each limited by at least one reference threshold value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2).

The method then involves defining a particular configuration of the dynamic system 2 for each combination of two of said value ranges (Gv; Gi) and then of controlling said dynamic system 2 so as to thereon confer a configuration corresponding to such a combination.

In a preferred embodiment, said method involves:

-   -   taking, at intervals over time, several readings of the short         circuit current Icc at the terminals of the isolated         photovoltaic generator 3;     -   for each short circuit current Icc reading, determining an         intermediate numerical value Ipv′ corresponding to such a short         circuit current Icc reading;     -   determining a numerical value Ipv by calculating the average of         the intermediate numerical values Ipv′ corresponding to a         plurality of said short circuit current Icc readings;     -   comparing said numerical value Ipv determined with at least one         reference threshold value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2);     -   controlling the dynamic system 2 according to the result of said         comparison.

In this respect, it will be noted that a reading of the short circuit current Icc is taken at the terminals of the isolated photovoltaic generator 3 at regular intervals over time, with said interval between two readings being between 2 and 15 minutes inclusive, preferably of the order of 5 minutes.

Moreover, when a numerical value Ipv is determined, the average is calculated of the intermediate numerical values Ipv′ corresponding to a given number N of short circuit current Icc readings chosen from among the last short circuit current Icc readings taken.

Such an embodiment thus makes it possible to calculate a rolling average of the last short circuit current Icc readings taken.

In a preferred embodiment N varies from 2 to 10 and is preferably equal to 5.

According to one characteristic of said method, the photovoltaic generator 3 is isolated, the short circuit current Icc is read, the numerical value Ipv corresponding to at least one short circuit current Icc reading is determined and said numerical value Ipv determined is compared with at least one reference threshold value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2), at predetermined and/or regular intervals.

In fact, such an interval is chosen according to the needs of the application and/or the electronic components used to implement the method.

In a preferred embodiment said regular interval is between 2 and 15 minutes inclusive, preferably of the order of 5 minutes.

It will be noted that such an interval is sufficiently precise to be able to detect a meteorological change.

Thus, on the one hand, by implementing said method at regular intervals (for example every 5 minutes) and, on the other hand, by determining a numerical value Ipv by calculating the average of the intermediate numerical values Ipv′ corresponding to a given number N of short circuit current Icc readings (for example N=5), the dynamic system 2 is controlled sufficiently precisely to detect a meteorological change and while smoothing over cloudy passages.

As mentioned above, the dynamic apparatus 1 comprises a photovoltaic generator 3 as well as a battery 4, supplied by said photovoltaic generator 3, and supplying the dynamic system 2 with electrical energy. In this respect, it will be noted that the quantity of energy stored in said battery 4 may be insufficient to operate the dynamic system 2, in particular if there is a lack of sunlight for a prolonged period. In order to compensate for said disadvantage, the dynamic apparatus 1 is designed to enable the dynamic system 2 to be supplied by an external voltage source (for example a mains supply or backup battery).

Thus, at the moment of implementing the control method according to the invention, the short circuit current Icc may reach a value that is destructive to the means 56 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 and/or for at least part of the means 57 for determining a numerical value Ipv corresponding to at least one short circuit current Icc reading (more particularly the current-to-voltage converter 570).

Thus, and according to an additional characteristic of the invention, before electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3, said means 56 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 and/or said part at least of the means 57 for determining a numerical value Ipv corresponding to at least one short circuit current Icc reading is protected, when the short circuit current Icc is higher than a defined setpoint.

In a preferred embodiment, said setpoint is defined, on the one hand, as higher than the maximum current that can be delivered by the photovoltaic generator 3 and, on the other hand, lower than the current destructive to the means 56 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 and/or at least a part of the means 57 for determining a numerical value Ipv.

In fact, when the means 56 for isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 consists at least in part of an electromechanical relay, such protection is afforded by limiting the short circuit current Icc (in particular by peak-limiting said short circuit current Icc) and then by interrupting (at least for a given length of time, notably a few minutes) the operation, using the control means 59, of said means 56 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3.

However, when said isolating means 56 comprises a diode with a very low leakage current as well as a switching transistor, such protection is afforded by limiting the conduction of said isolating means 56 (more particularly to limit the conduction of the transistor that is part of said means 56).

The method also involves determining a numerical value Ipv or an intermediate numerical value Ipv′.

Thus, when such a numerical value Ipv, or an intermediate numerical value Ipv′, corresponding to a short circuit current Icc reading is determined, first of all the short circuit current Icc reading is converted into a voltage Vcc and then said voltage Vcc or an amplification of said voltage Vcc is converted into a numerical value Ipv, or into an intermediate numerical value Ipv′, corresponding to said voltage Vcc and said short circuit current Icc reading.

According to another characteristic, before comparing the numerical value Ipv determined with at least one reference threshold value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2), such a reference threshold value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2) is set.

Similarly to what has previously been described, such a reference threshold value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2) is set either by setting an adjustable potentiometer, or by saving such a reference threshold value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2) in a memory.

Once again, a reference threshold value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2) is set on the basis of values taken from the literature and/or values determined by digital simulation and/or values determined by calculation.

An additional characteristic involves, when the short circuit current Icc of the isolated photovoltaic generator 3 is read, also reading the temperature T of the control device 5 and, either authorising the operation of the dynamic system 2 when said temperature T is higher than a threshold temperature Ts, or inhibiting the operation of said dynamic system 2 when said temperature is lower than said threshold temperature Ts.

The method described above makes it possible, in fact, to control the dynamic apparatus 1 (more particularly at least the dynamic system 2) on the basis of the sunlight.

In a particular embodiment, such control is afforded in accordance with the flow chart provided in FIG. 7.

In particular, said method involves, when the numerical value Vpv determined (corresponding to the no-load voltage Vo reading of the photovoltaic generator 3) is lower than a first reference threshold value Vthreshold1, controlling the dynamic system 2 so as to thereon confer a first configuration, when the numerical value Vpv determined is lower than a second reference threshold value Vthreshold2 or when the current time H read corresponds to a predetermined time at which the dynamic system adopts said first configuration.

As mentioned above, in the particular case of a dynamic apparatus 1 consisting of a roller shutter, said first configuration may consist of a twilight closure position of the apron of said roller.

Said method also involves, when the numerical value Vpv determined (corresponding to the no-load voltage Vo reading of the photovoltaic generator 3) is higher than a reference threshold value Vthreshold1:

-   -   comparing with at least one reference threshold value         (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2), a numerical value Ipv determined on         the basis of at least one reading of the short circuit current         Icc of the photovoltaic generator 3 electrically isolated from         the battery 4 and corresponding to at least one such short         circuit current Icc reading;     -   controlling the dynamic system 2 so as to thereon confer a         predefined configuration dependent on the result of said         comparison.

Thus, when the numerical value Ipv determined is lower than a first reference threshold value Ithreshold1, controlling the dynamic system 2 so as to thereon confer a second configuration.

In this respect, it will be noted that when the method also involves, reading the temperature T of the control device 5, said dynamic system 2 is controlled so as to thereon confer a second configuration, when the numerical value Ipv determined is lower than a first reference threshold value Ithreshold1 and the temperature T of the control device 5 is lower than a threshold temperature Tthreshold1.

In the particular case of a dynamic apparatus 1 consisting of a roller shutter, said second configuration may consist of a position where the apron of said roller shutter is completely closed.

However, when the numerical value Ipv determined is higher than a first reference threshold value Ithreshold1:

-   -   either the dynamic system is controlled so as to thereon confer         a third configuration when the numerical value Ipv determined is         higher than a second reference threshold value Ithreshold2;     -   or the dynamic system is controlled so as to thereon confer a         fourth configuration when the numerical value Ipv determined is         lower than the second reference threshold value Ithreshold2;

In this respect, it will be noted that when the method also involves reading the temperature T of the control device 5, said method then involves, when the numerical value Ipv determined is higher than a first reference threshold value Ithreshold1:

-   -   either controlling the dynamic system so as to thereon confer a         third configuration when the numerical value Ipv determined is         higher than a second reference threshold value Ithreshold2 and         the temperature T of the control device 5 is higher than a         threshold temperature Tthreshold2;     -   or controlling the dynamic system so as to thereon confer a         fourth configuration when the numerical value Ipv determined is         lower than the second reference threshold value Ithreshold2 or         when the temperature T of the control device 5 is lower than a         threshold temperature Tthreshold2.

In the particular case of a dynamic apparatus 1 consisting of a roller shutter, said third configuration may consist of a partially closed position (closed with openings) of the apron of said roller shutter whilst said fourth configuration may consist of said apron being completely open.

Once again, said control method may also involve, before comparing the numerical value Vpv determined with at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2), testing whether the current time H is situated within the predefined time range (in particular 22.30 to 7.00) in order either to prevent such a comparison when this is the case, or to authorise such a comparison when it is not the case.

In fact, the invention also relates to a dynamic apparatus 1 comprising, on the one hand, means (50 to 55) described above, designed in particular to implement the above-mentioned method based on no-load voltage Vo readings, and on the other hand, additional means, described below, designed in particular to implement the additional steps of the control method based on short circuit current Icc readings.

According to the invention and as shown in FIG. 6, said dynamic apparatus 1 comprises said device 5 for controlling said dynamic apparatus 1 which 5 then also comprises:

-   -   means 56 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3         from the battery 4;     -   means for reading the short circuit current Icc of the         photovoltaic generator 3;     -   means 57 for determining a numerical value Ipv corresponding to         at least one short circuit current Icc reading;     -   means 58 for comparing said numerical value Ipv determined with         at least one reference threshold value (Ithreshold1;         Ithreshold2);     -   means 59 for controlling at least the means 56 for electrically         isolating, the means 57 for determining a numerical value Ipv as         well as said means 58 for comparing;     -   means for controlling the dynamic system according to the result         of the comparison between said numerical value Ipv determined         and at least one such reference threshold value (Ithreshold1;         Ithreshold2).

Thus, the control device 5 comprises means 56 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3.

In a first embodiment, said means 56 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 consists at least in part of a switch, which preferably consists of an electromechanical relay, placed between the photovoltaic generator 3 and the battery 4, and comprising a normally closed contact as well as a coil supplied by the battery 4 (or any other energy source).

However, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the means 56 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 comprises, on the one hand, a diode with a very low leakage current placed between the photovoltaic generator 3 and the battery 4 and, on the other hand, a switching transistor (of the power MOSFET type) placed upstream of said diode.

In such an embodiment, when the transistor is conductive, the diode is reverse biased and therefore no longer conductive. The physical disconnection of the battery 4 is then no longer necessary.

Said control device 5 also comprises means 57 for determining a numerical value Ipv corresponding to at least one short circuit current Icc reading;

Said means 57 for determining such a numerical value Ipv comprises, on the one hand, at least means 570 for converting the short circuit current Icc reading into a voltage Vcc and, on the other hand, at least means 571 for converting the analog signal of such a voltage Vcc (in particular the voltage Vcc converted by the conversion means 570) into a numerical value Ipv corresponding to said voltage Vcc.

It will be noted that the means 571 for converting the analog signal of the voltage Vcc into a numerical value Ipv corresponding to said voltage Vcc consists of an analog-to-digital converter.

Moreover, the means 57 for determining a numerical value Ipv corresponding to a plurality of short circuit current Icc readings comprises, on the one hand, at least means 570 for converting each short circuit current Icc reading into a voltage Vcc and, on the other hand, at least means 571 (more particularly an analog-to-digital converter) for converting the analog signal of such a voltage Vcc (in particular the voltage Vcc converted by the conversion means 570) into an intermediate numerical value Ipv′ corresponding to said voltage Vcc and, further, means for calculating the average of the intermediate numerical values Ipv′ to obtain the numerical value Ipv corresponding to the plurality of short circuit current Icc readings.

According to yet another characteristic the means 57 for determining a numerical value Ipv, or an intermediate numerical value Ipv′, also comprises an amplifier 572 placed between the means 570 for converting a short circuit current Icc reading into a voltage Vcc and the means 571 for converting the analog signal of such a voltage Vcc into a numerical value Ipv, or into an intermediate numerical value Ipv′.

The control device 5 also comprises at least means 54 for setting at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2).

Such means for setting parameters may, once again, consist either of an adjustable potentiometer or similar, or a memory containing at least one settable reference threshold value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2). Such a memory will be of the non-volatile type and may be internal or external.

Such means for setting parameters may be separate from, or preferably combined with the means 54, mentioned above, and designed to set at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2).

The dynamic apparatus 1 comprises a photovoltaic generator 3 as well as a battery 4, supplied by said photovoltaic generator 3, and supplying the dynamic system 2 with electrical energy. As mentioned above, said dynamic apparatus 1 may also comprise an external voltage source (for example a mains supply or backup battery) designed to supply the dynamic system 2 when the quantity of energy stored in the battery 4 is insufficient to operate said dynamic system 2.

In such a case, the dynamic apparatus 1 also comprises means 7 for protecting the means 56 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 and/or at least a part of the means 57 for determining a numerical value Ipv corresponding to at least one short circuit current Icc reading (more particularly the current-to-voltage converter 570), when the short circuit current Icc reaches a value destructive to said means 56 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 and/or for at least a part of said means 57 for determining a numerical value Ipv.

In fact, said protection means 7 is more particularly designed to protect said means 56 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 and/or at least said part of the means 57 for determining a numerical value Ipv, when the short circuit current Icc is higher than a defined setpoint.

In a preferred embodiment, said setpoint is defined, on the one hand, as higher than the maximum current that can be delivered by the photovoltaic generator 3 and, on the other hand, lower than the current destructive to the means 56 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 and/or at least a part of the means 57 for determining a numerical value Ipv.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said protection means 7 consists of a protection circuit placed between the means 56 for isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 and the means 59 for controlling said isolating means 56.

Thus, when the means 56 for isolating the photovoltaic generator 3 consists at least in part of an electromechanical relay, said protection means 57 (more particularly the protection circuit) is designed to limit the short circuit current Icc (in particular by peak-limiting said short circuit current Icc), which has the effect of interrupting (at least for a given length of time, notably a few minutes) the operation, using the control means 59, of said means 56 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3, when the short circuit current Icc is higher than a defined setpoint.

However, when said isolating means 56 comprises a diode with very a low leakage current as well as a switching transistor, the protection means 7 (more particularly the protection circuit) is designed to limit the conduction of said isolating means 56 (more particularly to limit the conduction of transistor that is part of said means 56), when the short circuit current Icc is higher than a defined setpoint.

In fact, said protection circuit (constituting the protection means 7) may then comprise a feedback loop acting on said switching transistor.

The control device 5 also comprises means 8 for selecting either at least a part of means 51 for determining a numerical value Vpv corresponding to a no-load voltage Vo reading (more particularly the voltage divider 511), or at least a part of the means 57 for determining a numerical value Ipv (more particularly the current-to-voltage converter 570, or even the amplifier 572) corresponding to at least one short circuit current Icc reading.

Said selection means 8 is placed between the photovoltaic generator 3 and means (510; 571) for converting an analog signal into a digital signal.

The presence of said selection means 8 makes it possible, advantageously, for the control device 5 to comprise only one means (510; 571) for converting an analog signal into a digital signal to which an analog signal is sent corresponding, depending on the case, to a no-load voltage Vo or to a short circuit current Icc, under the impulsion of said selection means 8.

In a particular embodiment said selection means 8 consists of an analog multiplexer, a channel selector or similar.

As mentioned above, the control device 5 comprises means 59 for controlling at least said means 56 for electrically isolating, said means 57 for determining a numerical value Ipv as well as said means 58 for comparing.

According to an additional characteristic, said control means 59 may again be designed to also control the selection means 8, and even also the means 7 for protecting the means 56 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3.

Such a control means will preferably consist of a measurement sequencer.

Another characteristic of the control device 5 consists of it comprising a single analog-to-digital converter (510; 571) constituting, advantageously, on the one hand, at least a part of the means 51 for determining a numerical value Vpv corresponding to a no-load voltage Vo reading and, on the other hand, at least a part of the means 57 for determining a numerical value Ipv corresponding to at least one short circuit current Icc reading.

Yet another characteristic involves the control device 5 comprising a single comparator constituting, advantageously, on the one hand, the means 52 for comparing with at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1; Vthreshold2), a numerical value Vpv determined corresponding to the no-load voltage Vo reading and, on the other hand, the means 58 for comparing with at least one reference threshold value (Ithreshold1; Ithreshold2) a numerical value Ipv determined corresponding to at least one short circuit current Icc reading.

Additionally, the control device 5 comprises a single measurement sequencer constituting, advantageously, the means (53; 59) for controlling at least:

-   -   the means (50; 56) for electrically isolating the photovoltaic         generator 3 from the battery 4;     -   the means 8 for selecting either at least a part of the means 51         for determining a numerical value Vpv corresponding to a no-load         voltage Vo reading, or at least a part of the means 57 for         determining a numerical value Ipv corresponding to at least one         short circuit current Icc reading;     -   the means 51 for determining a numerical value Vpv corresponding         to said no-load voltage Vo reading;     -   the means 52 for comparing said numerical value Vpv determined         with at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1;         Vthreshold2);     -   the means 57 for determining a numerical value Ipv corresponding         to at least one short circuit current Icc reading;     -   the means 58 for comparing said numerical value Ipv determined         with at least one reference threshold value (Ithreshold1;         Ithreshold2);

Additionally, such a measurement sequencer also constitutes the means 59 for controlling the means 7 for protecting the means 56 for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator 3.

Finally, the control device 5 comprises a microcontroller 6 incorporating at least the selection means 8, the analog-to-digital converter (510; 571), the comparator (52; 58) as well as the measurement sequencer (53; 59).

Additionally, said microcontroller 6 also incorporates at least means 54 for setting at least one reference threshold value (Vthreshold1, Vthreshold2; Ithreshold1, Ithreshold2), more particularly consisting of a memory containing at least one settable reference threshold value (Vthreshold1), Vthreshold2; Ithreshold1, Ithreshold2). 

We claim:
 1. A method of controlling an apparatus based on sunlight, said apparatus being comprised of a dynamic system having a first configuration and a second configuration, a photovoltaic generator connected to said dynamic system, a battery connected to said dynamic system and said photovoltaic generator so as to store electrical energy supplied by the photovoltaic generator and to supply electrical energy to said dynamic system, and a means for controlling said apparatus being connected to said dynamic system, said photovoltaic generator, and said battery, said method comprising the steps of: setting a reference threshold value corresponding to a first value range and a second value range, said first value range being associated with said first configuration of said dynamic system, and said second value range being associated with said second configuration of said dynamic system; electrically isolating said photovoltaic generator from said battery; taking a no-load voltage reading of said photovoltaic generator so as to determine a numerical value based on sunlight exposure of said photovoltaic generator; comparing said numerical value to said reference threshold value; and based upon the comparison result, setting said dynamic system in said first configuration or in said second configuration, wherein said dynamic system is placed in said first configuration based upon the numerical value based on sunlight exposure of said photovoltaic generator being within said first value range, and wherein said dynamic system is placed in said second configuration, differing from said first configuration, based upon the numerical value of the sunlight exposure of said photovoltaic generator being within said second value range.
 2. The method of controlling, according to claim 1, further comprising the step of: repeating the steps of reading no-load voltage, comparing said numerical value, setting said dynamic system in said first configuration, and setting said dynamic system in said second configuration intervals.
 3. The method of controlling, according to claim 1, wherein said numerical value is comprised of a fraction of said no-load voltage reading from said step of taking said no-load voltage reading.
 4. The method of controlling, according to claim 1, further comprising the step of: saving said reference threshold value in a memory, before the step of comparing said numerical value.
 5. The method of controlling, according to claim 1, further comprising the steps of: setting a threshold temperature value corresponding to a threshold temperature range; taking a temperature measurement concurrent with the step of taking said no-load voltage reading; comparing said temperature measurement to said threshold temperature value; inhibiting the step of setting said dynamic system in said first configuration and the step of setting said dynamic system in said second configuration, when said temperature measurement is outside of said threshold temperature range; and proceeding to the step of setting said dynamic system in said first configuration and the step of setting said dynamic system in said second configuration, when said temperature measurement is within said threshold temperature range.
 6. The method of controlling, according to claim 1, further comprising the steps of: setting a predetermined time value corresponding to a predetermined time range; taking a time measurement concurrent with the step of taking said no-load voltage reading; comparing said time measurement to said predetermined time value; inhibiting the step of setting said dynamic system in said first configuration and the step of setting said dynamic system in said second configuration, when said time measurement is outside of said predetermined time range; and proceeding to the step of setting said dynamic system in said first configuration and the step of setting said dynamic system in said second configuration, when said time measurement is within said predefined time range.
 7. The method of controlling, according to claim 1, wherein said first value range is greater than said reference threshold value, and wherein said second value range is less than said reference threshold value.
 8. An apparatus for utilizing sunlight, said apparatus comprising: a dynamic system having a first configuration and a second configuration; a photovoltaic generator connected to said dynamic system; a battery, connected to said photovoltaic generator and said dynamic system, configured to receive electrical energy from said photovoltaic generator and to supply electrical energy to said dynamic system; and a means for controlling the step of setting said dynamic system in said first configuration and the step of setting said dynamic system in said second configuration, according to claim 1, said means for controlling being comprised of: a means for setting a reference threshold value corresponding to a first value range and a second value range, said first value range being associated with said first configuration of said dynamic system, and said second value range being associated with said second configuration of said dynamic system; a means for electrically isolating said photovoltaic generator from said battery; a means for taking a no-load voltage reading of said photovoltaic generator; a means for determining said numerical value based on sunlight exposure of said photovoltaic generator corresponding to said no-load voltage reading; a means for comparing said numerical value to said reference threshold value; and a means for setting said dynamic system in said first configuration and said second configuration; wherein, based upon the comparison result of said means for comparing, said dynamic system is placed in said first configuration based upon the numerical value based on sunlight exposure of said photovoltaic generator being within said first value range, and wherein said dynamic system is placed in said second configuration, differing from said first configuration, based upon the numerical value based on sunlight exposure of said photovoltaic generator being within said second value range.
 9. The apparatus based on sunlight, according to claim 8, wherein the means for electrically isolating said photovoltaic generator is comprised of an electromechanical relay, placed between the said photovoltaic generator and the battery; a contact having a closed status and an opened status; and a coil connected to said battery so as to supply power to said coil.
 10. The apparatus based on sunlight, according to claim 8, wherein the means for electrically isolating the photovoltaic generator is comprised of: placed between said photovoltaic generator and the battery.
 11. The apparatus based on sunlight, according to claim 8, wherein the means for determining said numerical value comprises means for converting an analog signal into a digital signal, said no-load voltage reading being an analog signal.
 12. The apparatus based on sunlight, according to claim 11, wherein the means for determining said numerical value further comprises a voltage divider, placed between said photovoltaic generator and said means for converting said analog signal into said digital signal.
 13. The apparatus based on sunlight, according to claim 8, wherein the means for controlling repeats the steps of reading no-load voltage, comparing said numerical value, setting said dynamic system in said first configuration, and setting said dynamic system in said second configuration at intervals with the means for electrically isolating, the means for reading, the means for determining said numerical value, the means for comparing, and the means for setting said dynamic system.
 14. The apparatus based on sunlight, according to claim 8, wherein the means for setting is comprised of a memory containing said reference threshold value.
 15. The apparatus based on sunlight, according to claim 8, further comprising: a microcontroller connected to said dynamic system and said battery, said microcontroller being comprised of at least one of a group consisting of: the means for determining said numerical value, the means for comparing said numerical value, the means for controlling the means for electrically isolating, the means for determining said numerical value, and the means for comparing, and a memory containing at least one reference threshold value.
 16. The apparatus based on sunlight, according to claim 8, wherein the means for controlling the step of setting said dynamic system in said first configuration and the step of setting said dynamic system in said second configuration further comprises means for taking a measurement.
 17. The apparatus based on sunlight, according to claim 8, wherein the means for controlling the step of setting said dynamic system in said first configuration and the step of setting said dynamic system in said second configuration further comprises means for inhibiting the step of setting said dynamic system in said first configuration in a first predefined time range and the step of setting said dynamic system in said second configuration within a predefined time range.
 18. The apparatus based on sunlight, according to claim 8, wherein the means for setting is comprised of an adjustable potentiometer. 